Comparing SaaS and server software for Endodontic practices reveals that SaaS offers benefits like web accessibility, automatic backups, lower ransomware risk, easier scalability, and cost-effective bundled services, making it a convenient and secure option for busy practitioners.
Key Takeaways:
- SaaS provides web-based accessibility, automatic backups, and lower ransomware risk.
- Scalability is easier with SaaS compared to server software.
- SaaS offers cost-effective bundled services.
- Server software requires on-site installation and manual backups.
- The risk of ransomware attacks is higher with server software.
- Initial investment for server software includes hardware and license costs.
- SaaS simplifies security and regulatory compliance measures.
| Web SaaS | Server | |
|---|---|---|
|
Accessibility |
Web-based application, accessible over internet/cellular. |
Desktop client application running locally on computer. |
|
Installation Requirements |
No installed client software. No physical hardware requirements. |
Installed on computers meeting hardware requirements. I.e. Windows, Server, Storage. |
|
Remote Access |
24/7 access from any device to support remote team members. |
Will require remoting software to access server data offsite. |
|
HIPAA Backups |
Automatic backups to the cloud server and daily updates included in most services. |
Daily backups required using a backup server off-site, managed by you or your IT support. |
|
HIPAA Liabilities |
You are responsible for securing any peripheral PHI stored or downloaded
OUTSIDE the PMS. |
You are responsible for securing all PHI data stored on your local server. |
|
Ransomware Risk |
Web-based applications do not have administrative access at the practice level, minimizing the chances of a ransomware kidnapping your data. |
Much higher risk as malware is much more likely to gain access to your server administrator stored locally in your practice through a Phishing email. |
|
Routine Updates |
Updates delivered automatically without additional effort or installations. |
New updates available in updated software with license purchase. |
|
Uptime and Reliability |
99.9% uptime. Relying on state of the art cloud servers, and internet/cellular/hotspots. |
Depends on the level of IT maintenance you have dedicated to maintain your server. |
|
Scalability |
Real-time updates as the industry changes to help you grow. Adding new users and locations can be done in user settings. |
Adding new users and new locations often costs more, and requires extensive physical hardware prep and install. |
|
Regulatory Compliance |
Utilizes secure and compliant data storage with routine monitoring and redundancies. |
Depends on the level of IT maintenance you have dedicated to maintain your server. |
|
Support |
Real-time support, usually accessible within the web application. |
Support via phone or email. Often an additional cost. |
|
Addons |
Services are usually bundled to be more cost effective. |
Often require costly add-on services. |
|
Cost |
Ongoing tax-deductible subscription with an upfront set-up fee. |
Substantial upfront investment in server hardware, and license costs. Add-on/maintenance services are charged monthly. Additional investments are made again when your server needs replacement, you add locations/users or you are ready to purchase the latest software license. |